Costcutter opens new store at the University of Manchester

Costcutter Supermarkets Group has opened a new 1000sqft store situated in the heart of the University of Manchester campus, with view to expand its university-based portfolio.

The University of Manchester-owned store on Oxford Road will serve some 40,000 students and 10,000 members of staff and offer a complete convenience range including fresh produce, food-to-go and off licence, as well as stocking Costcutter’s Independent own-brand range.

Daniel Quest, Costcutter Supermarkets Group retail director, said: “We’re partnered with a growing number of universities and helping them deliver on quality convenience stores for their students, colleagues and visitors that offer a great balance of quality and value for money. Manchester University approached us on a recommendation from the University of Birmingham, where our highly successful store has been in place for 12 years. We plan to further expand our university-based portfolio across the UK where we see the right opportunities.”

Chantelle Wakes, project manager for the University of Manchester, said: “The Costcutter team has been a joy to work with on this project. From planning stage to final delivery they were supportive and responsive, understanding the constraints of working within an academic organisation and remaining flexible and helpful throughout the process. They really get things done and solve problems straight away and their merchandisers have extensive product knowledge, advising me on orders, space and point of sale.”

The store will officially open at an official launch featuring an indoor garden party and giant Xbox gaming pod. Customers will also get the opportunity to win VIP box tickets for a Manchester United football match, while food and drink samples will also be provided by suppliers.